Reading between county redistricting lines

San Diego County is poised to adopt new political boundaries as part of a once-a-decade process rife with political intrigue and second-guessing — no matter where the supervisorial districts ultimately lie.

Supervisors this week selected one of three maps recommended by a board-appointed advisory committee that carves the county into five districts with roughly 619,000 people each.

The response has been harsh criticism from minority community groups.

Many of those critics — after sitting on the sidelines for most of the process — contend their voices would be further diluted in the new districts. All five supervisors are white Republicans who have served together since 1995.

Attorneys with the ACLU of San Diego and Imperial Counties say the proposed county map violates the Voting Rights Act. The law requires at least one district in which communities of color and “language minorities” make up a majority of the citizen voting age population, they said.

The board also has received condemnation from people who maintain that supervisors should not be allowed to redraw their own districts, particularly after cities and the state operate under independent commissions.

County Counsel Tom Montgomery said state law requires supervisors to sign off on their districts. The current proposal meets all of the provisions of the Voting Rights Act, he added.

Why it matters: Cox’s district grew significantly, thus the need to lose some northern beach neighborhoods. District 1 would take in more voting-age minorities, but not enough to satisfy some. They recommend shedding Coronado and Point Loma and taking City Heights. District 1 has long been eyed by the Democratic Party, but Cox’s deep roots in community, the power of incumbency and his moderate politics have made it a difficult “flip.”

Notable communities gained: Parts of Navajo, College Area and San Pasqual.

Why it matters: Jacob’s district remains among the safest as its party affiliation and demographics change little. Some community members suggested moving the East County communities of Lemon Grove and Spring Valley to a district that included the urban core of San Diego. A stalwart throughout East County, Jacob would likely hold on to her backcountry seat for the next decade, experts said.

Why it matters: In 2001, Slater-Price lost wealthy Rancho Santa Fe and Fairbanks Ranch for less-affluent Escondido. La Jolla is regarded for its wealthy donors and strong civic engagement. In 2012, she’ll face what is expected to be the most competitive race. Republican Steve Danon, chief of staff to Rep. Brian Bilbray, has been running for several months.

Notable communities lost: University City, Mira Mesa, Miramar Air Station and parts of the Navajo, College Area and Mission Valley.

Why it matters: Roberts, a former San Diego councilman, has represented coastal and downtown areas for years. His strong name recognition and moderate politics have helped to vault him past Democratic challengers. Political observers expect him to hold on to the seat for another term.

Why it matters: Horn’s district would see little change under the proposed map. It retains important advantages in voter registration. In November, Horn was re-elected by a large margin and said he planned to run again in 2014. Democrats would have a hard time identifying a candidate with a shot at unseating the entrenched incumbent, experts said.